Kawempe Muslim ladies flagged off for CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers

By Emmanuel Sekago

The FUFA Women Super League champions, Kawempe Muslim Ladies, have set their sights on making it to the continental stage.

This morning, Wednesday, August 14th, 2024, the team was officially flagged off to Ethiopia by Zuraika Kibirige, the school headteacher and club chairperson, at a ceremony held at Kawempe Muslim Secondary School.

The team is scheduled to depart Uganda tomorrow, Thursday, August 15th, 2024, at 11 a.m. aboard Ethiopian Airlines, as they head to Ethiopia for the CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers for the CAF Women’s Champions League.

Their opening match is slated for Sunday, August 18th, against PVP Buyenzi, followed by a tough encounter with Tanzanian giants Simba Queens FC on Wednesday, August 21st, and a final group stage match against FAD FC three days later.

Speaking to the media, head coach Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi expressed confidence in his team’s readiness for the championship. “It has not been an easy journey. We started last year, and here we are, heading to Ethiopia for the CECAFA Zonal qualifiers. A lot of money has been spent, and we are thankful to the administration for their support,” Kiyingi said.

He continued, “We played a league that was highly competitive, but because we were the best, we emerged as champions. We have adequately prepared and we expect the best at the end of the championship.”

Team captain Phiona Nabulime echoed her coach’s sentiments, expressing optimism about their chances in Ethiopia. “We are strong and determined. Since joining camp, there has been great input from everyone, and we are all ready to deliver a remarkable performance. We have unique talents and skills, and if we work together, we shall return home as winners.”

As Kawempe Muslim Ladies embark on this crucial journey, they carry the hopes of their school, fans, and the nation. With a strong squad and solid preparations, the team is poised to compete fiercely in Ethiopia.

All eyes will be on their performance as they aim to bring glory not only to their club but also to Uganda on the continental stage.

A contingent of 25 people, comprising 20 players and five officials, set to fly out for the championship.

Players; Phiona Nabulime (captain), Hadijja Nandago, Rodha Nanziri, Allen Nassazi, Nakato, Hadijja Babirye, Jolly Kobusingye, Josephine Nambuya (GK), Juliet Adeke (GK), Kuluthum Namutebi, Halima Kampi, Samalie Nakachwa, Mary Kabacureezi, Rita Mushimirwe, Dorcus Kisakye, Shadia Nabirye, Sharifa Nakimera, Sumayiah Nabutto, Saidat and Agnes Nabukenya.

The officials; Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi (Head Coach), Moses Nkata (Assistant Coach), Stella Nankumba (Team Doctor), Hakim Mukiibi, Wabwire Tabu and Sam Kakumba (Goalkeeping Coach)